After years of contemplation, Millcreek Township in Erie County is now at a crucial juncture in the process of considering an optional form of government. In accordance with the Home Rule Charter and Optional Plan Law, the current supervisors have passed an ordinance that will pose a pivotal question to the electorate on November 5. This question will determine whether a government study commission should be established to thoroughly examine the form of government of the township and compare it with other forms available in the Commonwealth. If the majority votes in favor, a seven-member study commission will be elected in the future, marking a significant step in the potential transition of the Township's government structure.
Specifically, the question will be presented as follows: "Shall a government study commission of seven members be elected to study the existing form of government of the municipality; to consider the advisability of the adoption of an optional form of government and to recommend whether or not an optional plan of government should be adopted?"
Erie County is home to three large townships, each managed by three elected paid supervisors. These municipalities, due to their larger populations and more complex zoning and land development situations, often grapple with operational difficulties that are not commonly encountered by smaller townships. This unique context underscores the need for potential changes in the form of government to better address these challenges.
The transition, if approved, would pass the daily operational leadership to a professional manager, rather than three elected supervisors. The creation of a council instead of a board of supervisors would be an integral part of that evolution.
As the retired manager of the only current Home Rule/Optional Plan form of government in Erie County, I can speak personally about how this particular layout of operation works. Although this five-member council has a mayor and vice mayor, each holds no real power over any of the remaining councilpersons. The mayor merely oversees the meeting process and is appointed by the sitting council members and is not an elected position in itself. Voting is still approved by a majority, and the mayor votes the same way as any other member. The manager does not vote but does offer perspectives and opinions to the council for them to consider on particular issues. The manager reports to all members of the council and not just one.
The team at Keystone Municipal Solutions will be following the Home Rule question in Millcreek Township closely as we approach the November election. If your municipality is considering a new form of government, we suggest you "fire this thing up" and let us help you ensure that your change of government follows the right steps to success.
About the Author
David L. Anthony is a member of the Keystone Municipal Solutions team of experts. He is a veteran of municipal government, having served more than 33 years in various positions of public service. Contact him at david@keystonemunicipalsolutions.com. To learn more about David and the Keystone Municipal Solutions team, click here.
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